Canillo - Introduction
Canillo is one of Grandvalira’s main mountain passes. Thanks to a modern, 8-seater cable car, it has become one of the easiest accesses to the resort. At the top lies the El Forn valley, one of Andorra’s most beautiful natural havens. Canillo is the ideal sector for beginners, for family skiing and for those who value the comfort of a peaceful town without crowds. Canillo is the capital of the parish of the same name. It is 12 kilometres from Andorra la Vella on the C G 2 main road, heading towards France. Access to the valley of El Forn, Canillo’s centre of operations, is achieved by a fast, modern cable car with room for eight passengers. The building is located right in the town centre, which makes it very handy for skiers staying there. Within minutes, Canillo’s cable car drops them at an altitude of 2,000 metres in an open mountain wonderland.
Skiing
There are six excellent sectors to choose from; Soldeu, Pas De La Casa, Canillo, Grau Roig, El Tarter and Encamp. GrandValira is excellent for beginners and intermediates with easy to handle runs situated at the bottom of the mountain. Advanced skiers have the chance to experience some of the harder trail runs although challenging but well maintained. El Tarter also offers great off-piste skiing.
Snowboarding
Boarders are well catered for in the Grand Valira ski area, with a fantastic board parks available in Pas de la Casa, where most of the serious boarders hang out.
Ski Schools
There are some great ski schools in Andorra with many English speaking instructors. As well as group lessons its definitely worth considering private tuition as this will allow total dedication to your needs and abilities and the lessons are not expensive.
Eating Out
Canillo is a quiet town, with a few restaurants serving traditional Catalan food.
Bars and clubs
The bars are relaxed and informal and you will find that drinks are very reasonably priced!
Off the slopes
There are several ski resorts all closely linked, as part of the Grandvalira ski area, from the city of Andorra La Vella where everything is tax reduced; to El Tarter, with its bars and clubs. Make sure you visit Caldea, the spa complex, a great experience not to be missed.